Engaging Research for Innovative Governance: A Study of the Delta State Civil Service, 1991 – 2022
Abstract
Globally, the place of research in achieving innovation to build critical institutional capacities for good governance and development is widely acknowledged. Yet Delta State is today bedevilled with several developmental challenges. Drawing from the perspectives of two theoretical models, rational choice and organizational development, this study interrogated the utilization of research by the state civil service since its inception. Empirical data obtained through questionnaires, interviews and published materials reveal that contrary to widespread beliefs, the bane is the civil service system, not its political leadership. This provided an interesting challenge for civil service management, even as the study found the majority to have a high degree and positive level of perception of research in service delivery. It recommended periodic impact assessment studies and a review of relevant extant rules with in-built provisions for rewards and incentives to stimulate independent research efforts.
Authors
- Chukwudebe Stanley Odigbo
Department of Political Science
Faculty of Behavioural Sciences
Dennis Osadebay University, Asaba
E-mail: stanley.odigbo@dou.edu.ng